Janice Sheaffer-Franxman Obituary, In Loving Memory of Janice Sheaffer-Franxman
Janice Sheaffer-Franxman Obituary, Death- Janice Lee Sheaffer-Franxman, a vibrant soul with a passion for life, passed away peacefully at her home in Verona, Ky., on February 1, 2024, at the age of 74. In this tribute, we celebrate the remarkable journey of a woman who left an indelible mark on the lives she touched. Born on April 5, 1949, in Pittsburgh, Janice, affectionately known as Jan, was the daughter of Ronald and Helen Fritz. Raised in Mars, she became the drum majorette during her high school years. Jan pursued a degree in nursing and embarked on an adventurous career that took her across the globe. Serving as a registered nurse for 41 years, Jan dedicated a significant part of her life to humanitarian efforts, traveling with the Peace Corps as a civilian nurse in the 1970s. Her compassion shone through as she assisted in surgeries for children and orphans with cleft palates and limb deformations in Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cyprus.
A Life of Creativity and Decoration
Jan’s creativity knew no bounds. Returning to the United States, she settled near Miami, where she worked as a nurse and recruiter. Yet, her artistic spirit thrived beyond the medical field. She crafted costumes, sets, and props for various events, including her daughter’s school plays and vacation Bible school. Jan embraced decorating challenges with enthusiasm, making every holiday a joyous occasion in her household. An ardent animal lover, Jan surrounded herself with a menagerie of creatures, from horses to pygmy fainting goats and everything in between. As a master gardener, she cultivated a thriving vegetable garden and stunning perennial flowers, earning accolades at the county fair. Her green thumb and love for nature were evident in the vibrant life that flourished under her care.
A Lifelong Learner and Music Enthusiast
Jan’s intellectual curiosity led her to immerse herself in books about American history, with a particular fascination for the Civil War and World War II. She shared her passion at Civil War reenactments in northern Kentucky, adding authenticity with her horses. A music aficionado, Jan’s playlist included Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, James Taylor, and Motown hits. She played the piano, weaving melodies that resonated with her love for life. Jan leaves behind a legacy of love and familial bonds. Her beloved husband, Walter Franxman, daughters Kelly Stephens and Katie Holzhause, stepchildren Jeff Franxman and Monica Egger, along with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, mourn her passing. She is survived by her sister, nieces, and cherished friends, Dona Gartrell and Beth Casarona. Jan’s warm spirit extended to great-nieces, great-nephews, and other relatives who held a special place in her heart.
Celebrating a Life Well-Lived
Visitation for Janice Sheaffer-Franxman will be held at Chambers and Grubbs Funeral Home on Thursday, between 5 and 8 p.m. Her funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home, followed by interment at Independence Cemetery. As we bid farewell to Jan, let us remember her vibrant spirit, love for life, and the countless lives she touched during her remarkable journey. May her memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew her.
